If We Ever Needed the Lord Before (We Sure Do Need Him Now): TTBB Choral Octavo
Words and music by Thomas A. Dorsey / arr. Robert Sterling
Level: Moderately Difficult
Item: 00-PO-0004851
$3.50
Minimum order quantity: 20 copies
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Description
Thomas A. Dorsey is one of the most significant contributors to our country's gospel music tradition. This Dorsey classic has been recorded by many choirs, gospel quartets, and most recently, by the contemporary vocal ensemble Take 6. This Robert Sterling arrangement is full of gospel choral sound, as well as wonderful contemporary harmonies identified with groups like Take 6.
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Additional Details
Series:
Alfred Archive Edition: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher:
Alfred Music
Page Count:
20
SKU:
00-PO-0004851
More about this title
About the Composer: Thomas A. Dorsey
Thomas A. Dorsey (1899-1993) shaped American gospel music through decades of composition, arrangement, and performance. Often called the "Father of Gospel Music," Dorsey bridged blues, jazz, and sacred traditions, creating a sound that became foundational to 20th-century American sacred music. His prolific output and distinctive harmonic language influenced countless composers and ensembles across multiple generations.
Dorsey's impact on music education extends far beyond his compositions. He established the first gospel music publishing house, trained performers and arrangers, and demonstrated how vernacular musical traditions could carry profound spiritual meaning. His work remains central to understanding American choral music and the gospel tradition.
Why we love this
Robert Sterling's arrangement captures the essence of Dorsey's compositional voice while infusing it with the contemporary harmonic sophistication that groups like Take 6 bring to gospel music. The piece balances accessibility with genuine musical substance, offering TTBB choirs a repertoire entry that sounds fully realized without requiring instrumental accompaniment to be effective. The recorded accompaniment option allows directors to support singers without sacrificing the authentic a cappella gospel sound.
What to expect
Urgent and grounded. The piece carries the weight of Dorsey's spiritual conviction while moving forward with rhythmic vitality and contemporary sophistication. Sterling's arrangement wraps you in rich harmonies that feel both warm and surprising, pulling listeners into the emotional truth of the text.
Who it's for
TTBB choirs seeking repertoire that sounds contemporary and grounded in authentic gospel tradition. The moderately difficult grade and extended range demand choirs with solid sight-reading skills and some experience with gospel idioms, but the music itself is deeply rewarding for singers ready to engage with sophisticated harmony.
How to get the most out of it
- Establish the gospel feel through rhythmic precision in the rhythm section (baritones and basses). Their pocket work anchors the contemporary harmonies and keeps the arrangement from sounding stiff.
- Let the harmony breathe. Sterling's contemporary voicings are designed to create space and resonance rather than density. Resist over-blending; clarity of line strengthens the gospel character.
- Use the recorded accompaniment strategically during rehearsal to lock parts, but build toward confidence singing without it. The arrangement rewards singers who can deliver the gospel swing independently.
- Shape phrases with attention to the text's emotional arc. Gospel phrasing often bends the strict rhythmic pulse slightly for expressive effect; this arrangement supports that tradition.
How to use it
Feature this as a standalone spiritual centerpiece or pair it with other gospel-rooted sacred works to create a program that honors American choral tradition. Its accessibility to audiences and immediate vocal appeal make it an excellent choice for community choirs or university groups aiming to build repertoire depth in sacred genres beyond classical hymnody.
Skills your students will build
- Singing contemporary jazz and gospel harmonies in close voicing
- Understanding and executing gospel swing and rhythmic feel
- Reading extended vocal ranges within TTBB voicing
- Balancing harmonic independence with ensemble blend
- Interpreting text with spiritual and emotional authenticity